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ElvisTommy



Joined: 11 Jun 2010
Posts: 1

PostPosted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 6:09 am    Post subject: Trail Access Reply with quote

Trail Access

There have been some discussions about the appropriateness of the state’s policies regarding trail access. One of the strongest outcries has come from horseback riders. For example, the state’s regulation states: “(1) Trails are open unless posted closed to hiking, mountain biking or other types of trail-related activities. Horseback riding is prohibited on trails unless posted as permitted. Use of any trail, road or path posted as closed by the Department of Environmental Protection is prohibited.” The Connecticut Horse Council has proposed the regulations to read: “Trails are open unless posted closed to hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, or other types of trail-related activities.” The current regulations are unfair to horseback riders, which has resulted in many horseback riders traveling on trails that have not been specifically designated for their use. In turn, this has outraged some other users. Likewise, many mountain bikers have been using trails prohibited for their use, especially the West Hartford Reservoir area. As with the horseback riders, the mountain bikers feel as though their prohibition of use along those trails is unfair and considering the quality of the ride, many bikers are willing to break the rules. The same can be said for motorized all-terrain and off-road vehicles. It seems as though the trail regulators have not met the needs of the users. Until there are appropriate trails with high quality terrain for all users, there will be people breaking the rules. From my perspective the ATV users have the most limited access followed by horseback riders and then mountain bikers. We need to even the playing field to respect the needs of all recreational pursuits.
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ctxguide
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Joined: 01 Jan 1970
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PostPosted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 3:46 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

This is an excellent point. I am a firm believer that the CT DEP has not met the challenge for providing appropriate venues for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. This has resulted in those with less legitimate access to engage in poaching trails that would otherwise be off limits.

Until more resources are provided for a greater depth of interest, the rules will be ignored and abused which will be cause for some distress among opposing users.

Personally, I think the only reason to close a trail to one type of user over another is for environmental protection.
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